Sergey Ryabkov Photo: Ria Novosti
Moscow seeks not a quick truce, but a solution to the “root causes” of the conflict
Russia insists on a long-term peace agreement on Ukraine that would address the root causes of the war, rather than a short-term US-backed truce that could quickly lead to renewed fighting. This was stated by Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov in a commentary to RIA Novosti, according to Reuters.
“We can recognise with sufficient confidence the desire of the American side to move towards a quick ceasefire,” Ryabkov said, adding that Moscow does not want a truce without a long-term settlement, as this will only postpone a new round of conflict with even more serious consequences, including the impact on Russian-American relations.
Riyadh talks: a step towards peace or uncertainty?
Last week’s Russian-American talks in Riyadh, which Moscow said were aimed at restoring bilateral relations and preparing for peace talks on Ukraine, did not provide more clarity on US President Donald Trump’s peace plan, the diplomat said.
He reiterated the Kremlin’s traditional position that Russia allegedly had no choice but to launch a so-called “special military operation”. At the same time, Ukraine and the West call it a full-scale war of aggression.
Ryabkov also reiterated his dissatisfaction with NATO’s eastward expansion, which Moscow sees as a threat to its security, and once again accused Kyiv of “harassing” the Russian-speaking population, which the Ukrainian government categorically denies.
Russia’s statements once again demonstrate that the Kremlin is seeking to consolidate its geopolitical interests under the guise of peace initiatives. At the same time, Ukraine and its allies insist that any negotiations are possible only after the complete withdrawal of Russian troops from the occupied territories.
